Multi-electrode zirconia electrolyte amperometric sensors

The concept of multi-component gas sensors based on stabilized zirconia amp erometric cells has been proposed and tested using cells with two working e lectrodes. Variations of the cell structure, geometric parameters, material s of working electrodes and working regimes are carried out for optimal ada ptation to the particular gas analytic application. Experiments have been c onducted in gas mixtures containing nitrogen, oxygen, nitrogen oxide and so me combustible gases. Optimization of cell design and working parameters ha s had a result in a good separation of signals from the measured gas compon ents at the particular electrode. Cross-effects from different electrochemi cally active gas components have been studied as well. These effects are ne gligible in measurement of oxygen and combustible components. Cross-effects from H2O and CO2 have been found at large potential difference applied to the working electrodes. These effects are eliminated by optimal selection o f electrode potentials and temperatures. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.